Israel
The ten-day ceasefire agreed this Thursday between Israel and Lebanon could be extended if peace talks between both nations progress, according to a document published today by the US Government, which reaffirms the right of Israelis to “self-defense” during the truce.
A six-point memorandum released by the State Department and agreed to by the Israeli and Lebanese governments states that “both countries are not in a state of war and are committed to engaging in direct negotiations in good faith, facilitated by the United States.”
The ceasefire, described as “a gesture of good will” by Israelis intended to enable negotiations “towards a permanent security and peace agreement” between the two nations, feuding for decades.
The ten-day truce, which will take effect from 5:00 p.m. Washington time (21:00 GMT), “may be extended by mutual agreement between Lebanon and Israel if progress is demonstrated in the negotiations and to the extent that the Lebanon effectively demonstrate its capacity to exercise its sovereignty,” the text indicates.
“Israel will retain its right to take all necessary measures in self-defence, at any time, against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks. This right will not be hindered by the cessation of hostilities,” the statement warns.
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